The sacred city of Ujjain known in the ancient days as Avanti (or Avantika) and Ujjayini is revered for its spiritual and religious potency. Ujjain is one of seven sacrosanct cities (Sapta Puri) mentioned in the Puranas that helps one realize his or her true purpose of existence.
This holy city is located on the banks of the Kshipra River (referred to as the Milky One in historical records). As per the Hindu scriptures, Ujjain is the place where Lord Krishna, Lord Balarama and Sudama had their formal education under Sandeepa Rishi whose ashrama was by the sea shore.
Interestingly, the old city of Ujjain was destroyed by either an earthquake or has sunk into the unfathomable depths of the Kshipra that has been described as an ocean and not a river in the Hindu texts. Archaeological and scientific excavations have uncovered fragments of the old city along with coins, beads, ornaments, seals and others.
One of the oldest temples in this city is the Chaubis Khambha Temple which used to be the original entrance to the city and the legendary Mahakalavana. The fortified enclosures are no longer visible though the temple and entrance gate are still standing.
According to the locals, the two forms of Devi namely Shree Mahalaya and Shree Mahamaya who are seated at the entrance of the temple oversaw 32 figureheads testing the intellectual acumen of the presiding king. Each day saw a new king coronated as his predecessor would either fail the test or give up his life in fear.
When Vikramaditya was crowned king, he was called by the two Devis to answer questions by the 32 images. He first arranged for a grand puja on the auspicious occasion of Shukla Ashtami.
Pleased with his devotion, Divine Mother blessed him and gave him a boon that he will be able to easily answer the questions posed by the 32 figures and it happened exactly like that.
The 32 figures in return also blessed him and said that they would always remain with him and ensure that he will rule justly as per the tenets of the Dharma Shastra. This is why Maharajadhiraja Vikramaditya has been regarded as the epitome of dharma.
The two Devis Shree Mahalaya and Shree Mahamaya are considered to be the guardians of the city. This temple as the name suggests has 24 pillars that are beautifully decorated. The idol of Maharajadhiraja Vikramaditya seated on the throne as well as the 32 figures are seen within the temple.
The original temple has been built by Maharajadhiraja Vikramaditya and renovated by the Paramaras in the 9th – 12th century. Maharajadhiraja Vikramaditya used to pass through this opulent gate to have darshan of Lord Mahakaaleshwar and Harsiddhi Mata.
The entrance has two tiers supported by carved pillars. There are shrines dedicated to Badi Mata and Chhoti Mata inside. Devotees come from far – flung places to have darshan in Navaratri and on Shukla Ashtami.
It is said that the entrance gate used to be studded with precious gems which was looted by the Mughals who then destroyed the entrance wall.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
sahasa.in 
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